Increased urinary type 1 collagen N-terminal telopeptide level 2019-01-20T16:17:52Z Telopeptides are tiny protein particles found particularly in type I collagen that include 15-20 amino acids. Telopeptides bound to the ends of these amino acids are removed from the body through the urine as a result of collagen metabolism. During resorption, amino and carboxyl terminal fragments, called telopeptides, are bound to collagens with cross links and can be released into the circulation and excreted in the urine. Some recent studies have demonstrated that the type 1 collagen N-terminal telopeptide (NTx) level is more specific to bone tissue than any other resorption markers. Increased urine NTx level An increased concentration of type 1 collagen N-terminal telopeptide (NTx) level in the urine. Generally the test is performed over a period of time, for instance, 10 cc of morning urine can be collected following 12 hours overnight fasting or for 24 hours. Increased collagen crosslinked N-telopeptide [Moles/volume] in 24 hour urine Elevated urinary collagen degradation products